DOOM: The Dark Ages Faces “Woke Ages” Criticism Over Difficulty Settings
DOOM: The Dark Ages, slated for release on May 15, 2025, is already facing controversy, dubbed “Woke Ages” by some, due to its new difficulty customization options. These settings allow players to tailor their experience with sliders that adjust various aspects of the game’s challenge. While some criticize this move, game director Hugo Martin addressed these concerns in a recent video.
# DOOM: The Dark Ages Difficulty Settings Explained
Hugo Martin emphasized that the new difficulty settings aren’t solely about making the game easier. He highlighted that they provide increased personalization and replayability. “These sliders allow players to make the game more accessible for newcomers while also offering a greater challenge for experienced players,” Martin stated. “You can slow things down, but you can also ramp up the difficulty. This allows players to experience the classic DOOM feel in different ways.”
> Hugo reacts to: Sliders in DOOM = Too Easy? pic.twitter.com/pIU4f0TEFZ
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> — DOOM (@DOOM) March 19, 2025
Martin further explained that these features enhance the classic DOOM “three-dimensional bullet hell” style. For example, players can decrease enemy attack speed while increasing their attack power, creating a more strategic experience. This encourages players to explore the game’s mechanics beyond simply killing zombies.
# Director Responds to “Woke Ages” Criticism
The game director firmly dismissed the “Woke Ages” label. “These settings are simply about offering more options. It’s about making the game accessible to everyone while also providing a unique experience for hardcore players,” Martin stated. He added that the sliders increase the game’s replayability, offering a fresh experience with different combinations each time.
DOOM: The Dark Ages aims to cater not only to traditional DOOM fans but also to new players joining the series. Hugo Martin’s statements aim to quell criticism, while the game’s new mechanics have generated excitement among players. This new installment of DOOM aims to preserve the series’ legacy while addressing the needs of modern gamers.